Zero-Waste Tourism: What nobody tells you about visiting Isla Contoy National Park

In this post, we will tell you all about zero-waste tourism, why Isla Contoy is one of Mexico's ecotourism references, and share the best tips to make your visit to this protected island an unparalleled experience. Read on and discover what nobody tells you about visiting Isla Contoy National Park.

What is zero-waste tourism?

Zero waste tourism is a way of traveling that seeks to minimize the generation of waste in order not to leave a negative footprint in the tourist destinations you visit, applying some principles such as: not consuming unnecessary products, reusing objects, recycling and composting, using local, durable and/or biodegradable products, as well as promoting a circular management of resources in hotels, businesses and local stores in order to protect the environment.

Key Principles of Zero Waste Tourism

The 5 R's: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rotate (Compost).

Avoid single-use plastic

Carry your own water bottle, a reusable cloth bag, and, if possible, products made of materials that you should not leave or throw away. When walking for a long time, a microfiber towel is best for keeping you cool and dry.

AVOID using PET

Don't use straws, plastic-covered objects, or other objects such as PET water bottles or some coated snorkeling gear.

If possible, bring your reusable bottle or thermos; they can help keep drinks cool during hot weather in destinations like Contoy.

Conscious consumption

Opt for local products, buy in bulk, and seasonal products to reduce packaging. Remember that, in Isla Contoy junk packaging is forbidden and there are no stores nearby, if possible, stop by a local grocery store or fruit store to keep a healthy, but small snack inside your luggage.

Another way to help is by choosing your accommodations and restaurants, ensuring they are environmentally friendly and that they properly dispose of their waste.

Since you are traveling to a virgin, protected island, we also recommend that you REUSE the items you are offered at the resort or on your tours. It is not necessary to make extra purchases of soap, shampoo, towels, snorkeling equipment, and so on. Many of the attractions or places you visit offer these amenities.

How can I practice Zero-Waste Tourism in Isla Contoy?

To practice zero-waste tourism in Isla Contoy, a protected natural area with limited access, you must follow the conservation rules step by step, focusing on two main rules: 1) do not generate garbage, and 2) take all your waste with you.

The island has no massive tourist infrastructure or hotels, only an ecologically sustainable station, so waste prevention is essential. It is also not possible to find service stores or food outlets, so you must take your own precautions, remembering to follow the island's safety and conservation protocols and to take all waste with you.

A key to this is: Everything you bring must be returnable or reusable.

Use biodegradable sunscreens and repellents, we have commented on it in almost all our posts, due to its importance: THE USE OF SUNSCREEN AND CHEMICAL REPELLENTS IS TOTALLY FORBIDDEN IN CONTOY ISLAND to protect the coral reefs and marine life. Make sure the products you use are 100% biodegradable, or, better yet, prioritize clothing with UV protection.

Eat food only in designated areas. Food consumption is restricted to specific areas, usually as part of organized tours, to control waste and avoid feeding local wildlife.

Do not feed or touch wildlife. Observe animals (birds, crabs, sea turtles, fish) from a safe distance. Feeding them alters their natural behavior and harms their health.

Follow the marked trails on the island; leaving them can damage the local flora, including coastal dune vegetation and mangroves.

Choose certified tour operators: visit the island through tours authorized by the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP). These operators are trained in sustainable practices and will guide you through the park's regulations. One of travelers' favorite tour operators is Isla Contoy Experience.

It is forbidden to take shells, sand, plants, rocks, or other natural elements from the island, as they are part of the island's natural environment and often home to the species that inhabit it.

Smoking is strictly prohibited on Isla Contoy. All this, to prevent fires and avoid contamination with cigarette butts.

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Do you know another way to practice Zero-Waste tourism? Let us know in the comments.